As the world welcomes the year 2026, numerous countries have marked the beginning of a new era with grand celebrations. In Auckland, New Zealand, the year 2026 began with a stunning fireworks display at the iconic Sky Tower, lighting up the sky with vibrant colors. In Sydney, Australia, the Opera House was the venue for a spectacular fireworks show, while a moment of silence was observed at the Sydney Harbour to honor the victims of the Bondai attack. In South Korea, the traditional gong was rung to usher in the new year, while in China, drums were beaten to welcome the arrival of 2026. Meanwhile, in Taiwan, a stunning fireworks display illuminated the Taipei 101 Tower, while in Hong Kong, buildings were lit up with a light show. In Bangkok, Thailand, colorful fireworks added to the festive atmosphere.
In Dubai, preparations are underway for a spectacular fireworks display at the Burj Khalifa, while New York, London, and Paris are also gearing up for grand celebrations. In New York, a notable event was held, where Zahran Mamdani took the oath of office, becoming the new mayor of the city. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recently completed a successful visit to the United States, boosting his political position. Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed confidence that Russia will emerge victorious in the ongoing war against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that his country wants to end the war but not at the expense of Ukraine’s existence.
In a significant move, US President Donald Trump has ordered the return of the National Guard from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland. In Italy, police seized 220 kilograms of highly explosive materials from a passenger van in the province of Sicily. In New York, newly elected Mayor Zahran Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026. In a joint statement, the foreign ministries of both countries have stated that the move was taken in accordance with the principle of “mutual response.” Ali Raza Syed, Chairman of the Kashmir Council of Europe, has expressed hope that the new year will bring relief to the people of Kashmir and international recognition of their rights.
In a significant development, Rajendra Sisodiya, a key accused in a rape case, has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district. The Saudi cabinet has approved a draft agreement on energy cooperation with Pakistan. According to reports, a destroyed drone was spotted in a video taken in the night, which showed the drone stuck in the snow. The price of petrol in Pakistan is expected to rise to 2.53 dirhams per liter, up from 2.70 dirhams per liter in December, according to the Fuel Price Committee. In India, a 28-year-old married woman was left on the road after being subjected to gang rape for three hours while driving a car in Faridabad. Thousands attended the funeral of Khalida Zia, including Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Muhammad Yunus.
The 100 Index closed at 1,74,52 points on the last day of the business year. Swiss police said the explosion occurred around 1:30 am, when people were attending a party at the New Year’s Eve celebration. In a notable development, a viral trend has its roots in a mathematical model proposed by German scientist Heinz von Foester in the 1960s. Pakistani model and actress Sanam Javeri has become a controversial figure on social media after her second marriage. The year 2025 was marked by significant innovations globally.
